G.P.S. way-points are used to program the UAV to fly a pre-planned flight path. This is especially useful when weather conditions do not allow ground control clear vision for direct viewing of the terrain. Hyper spectral imaging and infrared cameras assist the UAV operator to quickly and easily target ground objects and determine if they pose a threat.

The UAV and drones are very useful as they can sustain flight for an extended period of time unlike a modern military jet. Refueling needs and pilot fatigue limit the modern jet to a few hours of flight time normally. If in combat or needed to stay aloft longer, in-flight fueling can be done by way of a aircraft fuel tanker. This is a very high risk and dangerous procedure and is not used unless the need is great. Some bad incidents while mid-air refueling has happened resulting in the loss of one or both aircraft involved. Drones and UAV's have no human crew. Although the loss of an air vehicle may be expensive, no loss of life will incur if an incident brings the vehicle down.

The modern UAV can be equipped with a variety of sensors

including chemical sensors, electromagnetic sensors, and biological sensors. They can also utilize hyper spectral imaging, infrared, HD (high definition) and still cameras. Advanced radar systems are also used on some units. The military UAV can be equipped with a variety of weapons as well. This can include hell-fire missiles and bombs. Advanced technology can also see the use of "smart bombs" where the weapon can be guided after release from the aircraft. These were sometimes used in the Iraq war where they targeted bunkers and the most vulnerable spot of entry to maximize the blast and destruction. Hardened bunkers can have many feet of concrete and re-bar making penetration very difficult even for modern convectional weapons.

The oil and gas industry is realizing the potential of unmanned aerial vehicles ability to monitors gas plants, refineries and pipelines. Hyper spectral imaging can detect environmental changes that are not normal or spot a potential problem. Pin hole leaks in a pipeline can be detected and maintenance can be preformed before a possible rupture causing millions in damages in clean-up and possible environmental damage. Inspections from the ground that took days and many hours of man power can now be done with an aerial survey.

In some remote areas such as northern Canada, many pipelines and wells are only accessible while the ground is frozen. Muskeg and deep mud limit access in summer time. This is where drones and the UAV can quickly cover an area where it make take days or weeks of ground monitoring to inspect facilities. Bush and undergrowth may also hamper inspectors from spotting a possible problem.

An aerial view using HD or infrared cameras over comes this problem. Highly sensitive biological and chemical sensors can also detect any possible small leaks. Farmers and ranchers can easily view their pastures and range. They can determine where there live stock is and any potential threats to them. View where the grass is most plentiful and move their herd where they can feed from the best pasture. This can all be done from the comfort of their home using a drone or UAV.

Water inspection on rivers, lakes and the oceans can be done easily and cost effectively. Sports adventurists can monitor river rapids and determine if it is safe to attempt a canoe or kayak run. The applications for the UAV and drones is virtually endless.

Recently a lost child was found using a civilian UAV. A helicopter included in the search was not able to spot the lost child because of low flight hazards from trees and brush. The small civilian UAV was able to get really low and take pictures. Upon examination the child's clothing color was seen and searchers where able to pin point the location. Full autonomous flight with auto deploy and return make flying these new drones and UAV very easy.